I planted carrots this year for the first time (where I had success that is)... Keep moist is the key. I used cardboard laid over until they started to sprout. They're doing great and I'm quite chuffed.

Raking is an old man's sport. I can't manage raking without thinking of my late Dad, raking up all the eucalyptus leaves and bark after winds. He'd walk out to say goodbye when you left and would pick up the rake before you'd be down the driveway. He also loved watering by hand rather than sprinkler. It's such a good vibe. How lucky you are to be an old man who is alive and well enough to do such things.